2nd Kings 24-25; 2nd Chronicles 36

In 2nd Kings 24 we see King Jehoiakim's reign of Judah. Nebuchadnezzar King of Babylon had placed Him there to be His servant and reign under His authority during the captivity. Jehoiakim did not understand being submissive to Nebuchadnezzar's authority. He did not believe the words of the prophet that said this would last 70 years and He was removed as King, as was His son Jehoiachin who only reigned three months for the same reason. Many were taken into captivity and the articles of the temple were removed because they would not submit to authority for the consequences of their sin. Zedikiah (Mattaniah) reigned for longer. He was more submissive but still did not turn Judah back to the ways of the Lord.

In chapter 25 we have a picture of Judah in exile. The poor were left behind to work the fields. Gedaliah was appointed their king whom they assassinated. They could not understand being removed from their place in life by God. After 37 years Jehoiachin was removed from prison and gave him a high seat of honor by the new King of Babylon (Evil-Merodach). He was submissive and remained there as long as He lived.

In 2nd Chronicles 36 the Lord identifies their sin as hardening their hearts to Him and not heeding the word of the Lord through the prophets. Their priests followed evil customs and the temple of Solomon was burned. He sent His prophets again and again to bring them back, but they scoffed at them until the Lord was aroused against them. 70 years later as prophesied we see God move in the heart of Cyrus, King of Persia to return God's people to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. What is God telling you? He said there was no other remedy for them. Is he trying to speak? Are you willing to listen? He will always do what's best for us. His purpose is to turn your heart to Him, restore you spiritually and heal your suffering. We are not to get religious activity confused with where Christ wants us spiritually. When we get spiritually restored, He then can use us to minister to others.